Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026

For talented young South Africans passionate about music, acting, dance, design, photography, and digital creativity, the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 offers an opportunity to turn artistic passion into a professional career.

“Nyoloha” means “rise” in Sesotho — and this scholarship lives up to its name by nurturing emerging creatives through mentorship, training, and financial support for tertiary studies starting in 2027.

Quick Overview

Programme: ACT Nyoloha Scholarship 2026
Focus Areas: Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Digital Arts
Scholarship Value: Up to R300,000 per recipient
Number of Awards: Two full scholarships annually
Study Start: 2027 academic year
Eligibility Age: 17–25 years
Target Group: Grade 12 learners or applicants with university exemption
Support Includes: Mentorship, workshops, industry exposure, live showcases
Programme Duration: ~6 months (selection and development phases)
Sponsors: Nedbank, Sun International, MTN South Africa

Programme Highlights

The Nyoloha Scholarship goes beyond financial support:

Nationwide talent identification through auditions and portfolio submissions
Three months of mentorship and workshops with industry leaders
Practical training to refine technical and creative skills
Final visual arts exhibition and performing arts showcase
Access to an alumni network for ongoing industry opportunities

This approach ensures participants gain both academic access and professional readiness.

General Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

Be aged 17–25
Be in Grade 12 or have a university exemption
Require financial assistance for tertiary studies in arts
Plan to study in 2027 at a South African accredited institution
Not be registered at a tertiary institution in 2026
Not hold a prior arts qualification or professional status
Not be a 2025 Nyoloha participant or finalist
Commit to the full programme duration

QUICK LINKS:

Supported Fields of Study

Performing Arts

Acting
Dance
Music
Theatre production
Stage performance

Visual Arts

Fine arts
Illustration
Sculpture
Photography
Mixed media

Digital Arts

Animation
Graphic design
Multimedia design
Digital storytelling
Creative technology

Selection Process

Application submission
Auditions or portfolio review
Shortlisting
Mentorship and development workshops
Final showcase or exhibition
Scholarship awards announcement

Participants benefit from training even if they are not ultimately awarded the scholarship.

How to Apply

Apply via the official ACT Nyoloha Scholarship portal.

Closing Date: 31 March 2026

Recommended preparation:

Build a strong portfolio
Document work with photos, videos, sketches, or performances
Practice for auditions
Research tertiary institutions offering arts programmes
Highlight community involvement in arts
Demonstrate commitment, creativity, and authenticity

Career Growth Path

Recipients of the Nyoloha Scholarship can pursue careers as:

Professional performers or visual artists
Creative directors or designers
Film, TV, and theatre professionals
Digital content creators
Arts entrepreneurs
Arts educators or facilitators

Graduates also gain opportunities for international collaborations and portfolio development.

FAQs

Who should apply?
Young creatives aged 17–25 planning to study performing, visual, or digital arts who need financial support.

Can university students apply?
Only if not registered for the 2026 academic year.

Is professional experience required?
No. The programme is designed for emerging talent, not established professionals.

What does the scholarship cover?
Funding up to R300,000 for tertiary studies plus mentorship, workshops, and showcase opportunities.

Is participation required even if you don’t win?
Yes. Mentorship and showcase phases are part of the programme experience.

When will studies begin?
Scholarship recipients start their tertiary studies in 2027.

Apply before 31 March 2026 to secure a chance at a fully funded scholarship with the ACT Nyoloha Programme and launch your creative career.

YouthSpace

Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) Nyoloha Scholarship Programme 2026 Eligibility Age: 17–25 years Now Open